Introduction
When it comes time to upgrade the ignition coils on your Audi or Volkswagen 2.0T, there are a lot of options to choose from. In this article, we'll break down the best options and what you need to know to make an informed decision.
Symptoms of a bad ignition coil can include: engine misfires, rough running, poor acceleration, and even a Check Engine Light. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's time for a coil replacement.
The good news is that most coils are easily replaced with minimal tools and expertise required. We'll walk you through the replacement process and recommend some of our favorite upgrades for improved performance.
Symptoms of Needing to Replace Ignition Coils
The ignition coils are responsible for providing electricity to the spark plugs. When these coils start to fail, you will experience a number of symptoms including:
The Replacement Interval for Audi / VW
The replacement interval for Audi / Volkswagen 2.0T ignition coils can vary depending on the type of driving you do, the age and condition of your coils, and the type of spark plugs you're using.
Generally speaking, though, most people will need to replace their ignition coils every 50,000 to 70,000 miles. If you have a tuned car, you should use 1 step cooler plugs such as the NKG RS3 / RS7 plugs SILFER8C7ES / 9106 and replace your ignition coils every 30,000 miles.
ECS Tuning offers a wide range of ignition service kits that include everything you need to replace your ignition coils - from the coil packs themselves, to the spark plugs, to the tools needed for the job.
When to Replace Spark Plugs When Replacing Coils – Tuned Cars Should Use 1 Step Cooler Plugs
If you're considering upgrading your ignition coils, you might be wondering when it's the best time to replace your spark plugs. In most cases, it's best to do this at the same time as the coils.
This is because upgraded ignition coils require a stronger spark to function properly. If you don't also upgrade your spark plugs, you may experience misfires and other drivability issues.
However, if your car is tuned, you should use 1 step cooler plugs such as the NGK Racing spark plug 4901 used on the MK7 Golf R instead of the stock plugs that came with your car. These will provide the optimal level of heat and spark for your upgraded ignition coils.
Best Ignition Coil Brands for your Audi or VW 2.0T Engine
Now onto the fun part—what kind of ignition coil upgrades should you buy? Depending on your budget and desired features, there’s a variety of brands available.
034Motorsport: coils are designed to be direct replacement units and are one of the most popular among VW/Audi enthusiasts.
CTS Turbo: is another popular brand, with coils renowned for their increased power output.
APR Ignition Coils: or other “aftermarket” coils are great for those who want performance-oriented coils.
Ignition Service Kits: offer more affordability with basic but reliable upgrades.
No matter which ignition coil upgrade you choose for your Audi / Volkswagen 2.0T, make sure to keep them clean and check up on them regularly to ensure a safe and trouble-free ride.
Q & A's on Upgrading Ignition Coils in the Audi VW 2.0T
You may have some additional questions regarding your ignition coils so let’s take a look at some of the frequently asked questions when it comes to replacement and upgrades.
Q: How do I know if I need to replace my ignition coils?
A: There are several symptoms you should look out for such as poor acceleration, loss of power, and misfiring. If you notice any of these, then it may be time to replace your ignition coils.
Q: How often should I replace my Audi VW 2.0T ignition coils?
A: The usual replacement interval for ignition coils is between 50-70k miles but it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s measurements on this.
Q: Do I need to replace my spark plugs when doing an upgrade/replacement to my Audi VW 2.0T ignition coil?
A: Yes, this is highly recommended especially for tuned cars which should use 1 step colder spark plugs.
Conclusion
When it comes time to replace your Audi or Volkswagen 2.0T ignition coils, you have a few different options to choose from. In this article, we'll explore the best ignition coil upgrades available and what you need to know before making a purchase.
We'll also take a look at the symptoms of a bad ignition coil and how to go about replacing them. Keep in mind that, when doing a coil replacement, it's also a good idea to replace the spark plugs. For cars that are tuned, we recommend using 1 step cooler plugs.
Finally, we'll provide a few tips on how to get the most out of your ignition coil upgrade.
